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iOS 26.2 Leak Shows iPhone Might Let You Replace Siri as Default Assistant [U]

Code in iOS 26.2 beta 3 suggests Apple is preparing to let users invoke third-party AI assistants via the iPhone Side Button, replacing Siri, with the update launching next month.
The EU's Digital Markets Act is prompting Apple to use iOS 26.2 to roll out DMA‑related compliance measures, with side‑button assistant changes likely limited to the EU before end‑of‑year DMA deadlines.
Developers found strings and a new system app showing a `SystemVoiceAssistant` app and Side Button App strings with prompts like `Assign a voice-enabled app to the Side Button` and region message `APP_NOT_AVAILABLE_FOR_SIDE_BUTTON_IN_REGION`.
IPhone users would be asked whether to replace Siri with another assistant, while region-availability strings warn some apps won’t work with the side button in certain areas.
Next month’s release, the last major update before the holidays, could see Apple time iOS 26.2 to meet EU Digital Markets Act deadlines.

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